The 2005 edition of the 'Historic Automobile Festival of Japan' attracted a plethora of stunning Italian machines - such as the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati MC12 - which were involved in dramatic track action. This event - now in its the fifth year - has rapidly become known as the 'Goodwood Festival of Speed of Japan' as it sees the very cream of road and race cars from throughout automotive history, joined by many names and faces easily identifiable to the huge audience it attracts.

The event - each year - features all types of cars, both modern and historic, from Fromula One racing cars to rally cars, and sportscars to supercars. Divided into fourteen categories, all are presented for close up viewing and take part in an exciting racing programme. It draws a huge crowd, and has become a firm fixture on the annual Japanese calendar.

The 'Automobile Festival of Japan' is held at the Twin Ring Motegi, a purpose-built circuit - located in the Tochigi prefecture - which first opening in 1997 and which bills itself as a “Fusion of Human, Nature, and Mobility." It is a large amusement park surrounded by snow-capped mountains, combining motor racing, driving experiences, nature exploration and many other activities. Apart from the race track, primary features include a large themed woodland, the 'Honda Collection Hall' where a trip down Honda's memory lane can be enjoyed by viewing the legendary motorcycles and automobiles, the 'Fan Fun Lab' where visitors can see and consider future manufacturing possibilities, together with the humanoid robot ASIMO, and the 'Active Safety Training Park' where participants can learn about the systems and mechanisms of various means of transportation, and experience simulated dangerous situations that could actually occur.
 

Cornes & Co. as usual provided some of the truly mouthwatering cars which were on display and in race action, including the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati MC12 supercars, as well as an ex-Michael Schumacher F1 Ferrari. Cornes and Co. has represented Ferrari in Japan since 1976 and also supports the Japan Grand Prix by assigning their mechanics and service personnel to the Suzuka circuit every autumn. Furthermore, they act as the Secretariat Office of the Ferrari Club of Japan to promote sociability among the Ferrari owners at several events which are held throughout the year.

Their next Italian association came when Cornes and Co. also began importing and selling Maserati models in Japan during 1997, and since then have been appointed as the official importer of the Maserati in Japan. They also import Alfa Romeo and Fiat, as well as other prestige brands such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

Other sportscars cars to catch the eye at this festival included a couple of very aggressive-looking Maserati Trofeo Light GT racers, and a resplendent Ferrari 308 GT-4 Bertone. Closely fought racing action during the event was especially to be seen during rounds of the Japanese Ferrari F355 and 360 race series' which took place on the panoramic Twin Ring Motegi circuit.

Photos: Max Press